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A day of relentless bombardment in Lebanon has resulted in the tragic loss of 39 lives, as reported by the country’s health ministry. The latest Israeli airstrikes, particularly targeting the southern town of Saksakiyeh, have drawn international attention and condemnation, with the Lebanese authorities confirming that among the deceased are civilians, including children. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) assert that their operations focus on dismantling the military capabilities of the Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah, although the toll on non-combatants continues to rise.
Civilian Casualties Rise from Israeli Airstrikes
The health ministry of Lebanon disclosed that the airstrike in Saksakiyeh alone led to seven fatalities, including a young girl, and inflicted injuries on 15 others, three of whom are children. In a statement, the IDF acknowledged the strikes but maintained that they were aimed specifically at Hezbollah operatives. “We are aware of reports regarding harm to uninvolved civilians,” the IDF noted, highlighting their efforts to minimise collateral damage through precise munitions and aerial surveillance prior to the attacks.
The Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported a series of Israeli strikes throughout southern Lebanon, indicating a significant escalation in military operations since US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on 16 April. The region has experienced a surge in violence, with the Lebanese health ministry estimating over 120 civilian casualties in the past week alone, a figure
